Hundreds of students at Falmouth University and the University of Exeter have been tested for coronavirus on campus before they travel home for Christmas.

They have been encouraged to take two rapid-result 'lateral flow' tests, three days apart, and then return home as soon as possible after the second if both are negative.

If either are positive, they are being asked to self-isolate and take a further test before heading home.

Testing began on Monday, November 30th, and ended on Tuesday, December 8th.

The dates have been chosen to allow anyone who does test positive enough time to self-isolate for the maximum 14 days and still have time to get home for Christmas.

It is anticipated that the same mass testing process will be used in the New Year to support their safe return to their studies in Cornwall.

Cllr Sally Hawken, Cornwall Council's Portfolio Holder for Children, Wellbeing and Public Health, said:

"This is an impressive operation and I'd like to thank the Falmouth University and the University of Exeter for ensuring their students can return home safely for Christmas. I'm sure long term local residents will be reassured to know that the mass departure and the return of students has been planned so carefully.

"I would also like to thank the students for taking up the offer of tests and showing people that they are taking the pandemic seriously. It is voluntary but it's fantastic to see so many signed up."

Students are being encouraged to use private transport where possible, but the university has been liaising with transport providers to ensure services can cope with the extra demand.

Those using public transport are being reminded of the need to follow the 'hands, face and space' government guidelines.

Peter Cox, Falmouth University Chief Operating Officer, said:

"The health and wellbeing of students, staff and our community is our priority. We have been pleased to be in a position to offer this testing service to our students, so they can leave campus for the holidays, knowing they can safely spend time with loved ones.

"We are now working on plans to provide this testing again in January and February, so we can welcome students back to campus and minimise any disruption to their studies while helping to prevent any spread of the virus and protecting our community."

Meanwhile, Cornwall Council's Public Health and Covid Enforcement teams are urging students to take extra care and behave sensibly in the period leading up to their departure.

Dr Ruth Goldstein, Deputy Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, added:

"We don't want to sound like killjoys but this is the law now, and it is vital that we keep following the public health guidance so we can stop the virus spreading and stay in Tier 1."

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